Cam Akers is signed to a one-year contract by the New Orleans Saints.

A Return to the Bayou: Cam Akers’ One-Year Pact with the Saints

On Friday, June 13, 2025, the New Orleans Saints officially welcomed running back Cam Akers to their roster on a one-year contract, marking another chapter in the veteran’s resilient NFL journey. Following a successful tryout during the team’s mandatory minicamp, Akers emerged as a standout candidate to bolster an already formidable backfield comprising Alvin Kamara, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kendre Miller, and rookie Devin Neal. The Saints’ front office, led by Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis, moved swiftly to secure Akers, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to depth and versatility at the running back position .

From Seminole Star to NFL Prospect

Cam Akers’ roots trace back to Jackson, Mississippi, where he excelled at Clinton High School as both a quarterback and running back. Rated as a five-star recruit, he piled up over 2,100 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns in his senior year alone, earning both Gatorade Mississippi Player of the Year and U.S. Army Player of the Year honors in 2016. His dual-threat capabilities attracted the Florida State Seminoles, where he cemented himself as one of the ACC’s premier rushers, earning second-team All-ACC honors in 2019. Across three collegiate seasons, Akers amassed 2,769 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns on 461 carries, complemented by 25 receptions for 261 yards, showcasing his all-around potential .

A Promising Start with the Rams

Selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the second round (52nd overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft, Akers burst onto the professional scene with 1,037 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in his rookie campaign, demonstrating breakaway speed and a powerful running style that belied his 5-10, 217-pound frame. In Super Bowl LVI, Akers contributed crucial carries in the Rams’ championship run, further solidifying his reputation as a cold-blooded performer on the biggest stage. His early success, however, came to a screeching halt in Week 15 of the 2021 season, when he suffered a torn Achilles tendon, sidelining him for the remainder of the year and casting doubt on his long-term durability .

The Road Back: Injuries and Perseverance

Undeterred by his injury, Akers committed to an exhaustive rehabilitation program, returning to full strength by 2022 and contributing throughout the Rams’ postseason run. In March 2023, the Rams traded him to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for late-round draft capital, hoping he could provide a complementary threat to backup Dalvin Cook. Unfortunately, a second Achilles tear in Minnesota prematurely ended his 2023 campaign after just three games, raising concerns about long-term health. Despite these setbacks, Akers’ work ethic and mental fortitude earned praise from coaches and teammates alike, setting the stage for a career-reviving opportunity with the Saints .

2024 Season Recap: A Tale of Two Teams

Last season, Akers split time between the Houston Texans and the Vikings, handling 104 carries for 444 rushing yards (4.3 average) and two touchdowns, alongside 14 receptions for 68 yards and three scores. His stint in Houston showcased glimpses of his pre-injury explosiveness, while Minnesota utilized him in a complementary role behind Cook, capitalizing on his receiving skills out of the backfield. Though he never recaptured his 2020 form, Akers’ versatility—as a runner, receiver, and pass protector—remained evident. In total, he played 12 games, contributing to special teams and short-yardage situations, reinforcing his value as a Swiss-army knife back .

Fit in New Orleans: A Perfect Storm

The Saints’ decision to add Cam Akers speaks volumes about their strategic vision. Head coach Dennis Allen emphasized the importance of rotational depth in a run-heavy offense that leverages multiple backs to exploit defensive mismatches. With Alvin Kamara fresh off a two-year extension, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s elusive style offering contrast, Akers brings a between-the-tackles power that can open holes for his teammates. His experience in Super Bowl–winning and playoff-driven squads provides invaluable championship pedigree to a locker room hungry for postseason success. Moreover, rookie Devin Neal’s developmental arc will benefit from Akers’ mentorship, fostering a collaborative rushing corps .

Financials and Contract Details

Akers’ one-year agreement is reportedly valued at the veteran minimum with performance incentives tied to carries, receptions, and playoff participation. While not a headline-grabbing payday, the deal offers Akers a prove-it opportunity in a stable environment alongside one of the league’s most respected coaching staffs. The contract’s structure—low base salary, high upside in incentives—minimizes financial risk for the Saints while rewarding Akers for on-field production. If he can stay healthy and seize his role, the structure ensures both parties share in any breakout success .

Expectations and Role Defined

Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael outlined Akers’ projected role: third-down back, change-of-pace runner, and special teams contributor. In practice sessions, Akers impressed with blitz pickup and pass-catching drills, highlighting his multifaceted skill set. Fans should expect to see Akers in scenarios requiring physical toughness—goal-line carries, early-down hard runs, and as a safety valve in the passing game. Given Kamara’s multi-dimensional usage, Akers could see as many as 6–8 touches per game, with occasional bursts as the lead back if circumstances demand. His ability to keep defenses honest complements the Saints’ dynamic aerial attack led by quarterback Derek Carr .

The Broader Roster Picture

New Orleans’ offseason acquisitions reflect a balanced approach: veteran pass-catchers like Gabe Davis, offensive line reinforcements, and now, a deep backfield rotation. Akers’ addition underscores the front office’s belief in competition and depth as pathways to sustained success. By reestablishing a physical identity on the ground, the Saints aim to control time of possession and reduce reliance on high-variance plays. In an NFC South division featuring stout defenses and mobile quarterbacks, a versatile, deep running back group could be the difference-maker over a 17-game schedule .

Looking Ahead: A Test of Resilience

As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Akers’ health and adaptability to New Orleans’ playbook. His previous success in high-pressure environments bodes well for a seamless integration, but the lingering Achilles concerns cannot be ignored. Sports science staff will monitor his workload, employing rotational design to maximize impact while mitigating risk. If Akers can harness his physical talents without setback, he stands poised not only to resurrect his career but to play a pivotal role in the Saints’ pursuit of NFC Championship contention .

Conclusion
Cam Akers’ signing with the New Orleans Saints embodies the spirit of redemption and the strategic foresight of a franchise determined to fortify every facet of its roster. From his record-setting high school days and collegiate stardom at Florida State to the peaks and valleys of his NFL tenure, Akers has navigated adversity with unwavering resolve. His one-year deal in New Orleans offers a fresh start and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a team hungry for postseason glory. Should Akers stay healthy and translate his multifaceted talents to the Bayou, he could become the X-factor that propels the Saints back into championship conversations, writing a remarkable comeback story befitting his relentless drive and Championship pedigree.